Active euthanasia, euthanasia, mercy killing or killing on request? The concepts are many, but which words are the most appropriate to use when we e.g. discuss whether euthanasia should be legalized? The answers to that question and many more are put to debate by the Council of Ethics in the campaign Ethics and Use of Language
The campaign was kicked off on the 5th of March, 2012, and in doing so the Council launched an application for smartphone for the first time. Through application, all languages interested people can vote on which words they will use for various topics, submit their own words and reflections, and finally there is an opportunity to submit images of the linguistic peculiarities of public signs or leaflets. The campaign also includes a discussion material, which is intended for educational purposes for professionals in the health care sector as well as for use in their workplaces.
"By putting ethics and the use of language on the public agenda the Council of Ethics wish to point out that the use of language in the health care system calls for diligence and attention. When we communicate with each other, health professionals, citizens, caregivers and patients, in all the important conversations, it's a good idea to consider carefully about the choice of words, and furthermore to ensure an ethical approach to the language. An appropriate choice promotes respect between people and allows for an open dialogue", says Anne-Marie Mai, member of the Council and Chairman of the Working Group on Ethics and Use of Language.
In the coming months the Council collects all messages and words, which are sent to us through the application. Then selected input will be released in an updated version of the discussion material.
If you wish to hear more about the Ethics and Language Usage campaign, please contact:
Project Manager Thomas Laursen, +45 7221 6861, tl@etiskraad.dk
Communication Coordinator Louise Dehn, +45 7221 6868, lcd@etiskraad.dk